Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum suffered a ruptured right Achilles tendon during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on May 12. After Jaylen Brown lost the ball, Tatum attempted to plant his right leg to retrieve it, but trainers had to assist him off the court, as he was unable to put any weight on that leg.
This type of injury has become increasingly common in sports over the past few years and is typically recognizable since it often occurs without contact. Tatum is now the sixth NBA player to experience an Achilles tear this season, joining the ranks of Damian Lillard, Dejounte Murray, Dru Smith, James Wiseman, and Isaiah Jackson.
In a similar vein, during Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals, Klay Thompson sustained a significant injury as he went up for a dunk and landed awkwardly, causing his left knee to buckle. This injury not only altered the course of Thompson’s career but also impacted the Golden State Warriors significantly. Tatum has the potential to become one of the top players of all time; however, this injury may affect that trajectory.
Overall, this is a substantial setback for both Tatum and the Boston Celtics, one that could have lasting implications for the franchise’s future.
